“We prepared ourselves the best way we can for this series,” said Guiao, referring to the best-of-three duel. “More than the physical aspect, mental toughness is the key in winning against Ginebra.”

Both have had recent experiences to back up their contention. In their last meeting last Nov. 25, Ginebra came back from 17 points down to carve a 97-90 decision before the Kings failed to display such fortitude, blew a 17-point third quarter lead and bowed to Talk N Text, 77-87, last Sunday.

Such fates helped push Rain or Shine at No. 3 following the 14-game eliminations and set up the duel with Ginebra, which finished at No. 6.

At first glance, Ginebra seems to have the edge, having also won their initial encounter,98-94.

Guiao, however, simply shrugged those losses off.

“This is the time when winning really counts,” he stated.

In both those games, Ginebra controlled the boards and Guiao said that is one department his charges must concentrate on. “We need to match their rebounding strength if we are to survive this series. We don’t want to take an early break,” he said.

The teams also appear headed for different directions.

Prior to that loss to the Tropang Texters the Kings also dropped a 79-83 decision to Barako Bull while the E-Painters wound up the elims with a cruising 116-101 victory over the Energy Cola.

Also, for the first time since Game 2 of the Governors Cup Finals against B-Meg (now San Mig Coffee), Paul Lee used the Barako game to finally see action and promptly delivered 16 points, six assists and four rebounds in just 20 minutes.

“It’s a good sign for us, Paul playing the way he did,” said Guiao after that game. “He adds a new dimension to our game going to quarterfinals.”

With Lee back, Rain or Shine’s backcourt suddenly gained much-needed depth that can match Ginebra’s since Guiao can also count on Gabe Norwood, Chris Tiu, TY Tang and Jonathan Uyloan, who exploded for career-highs of 18 points, four rebounds and as many assists against Barako to backstop Jervy Cruz’s game-high 23 points.

What should be of vital interest to Ginebra fans is how Mark Caguioa fares this time around since rumors persist he is suffering from a bum ankle as well as a pulled thigh muscle. (NC)